| Country: |
People's Republic of China |
| Alternate Name: |
JL-2 |
| Class: |
SLBM |
| Basing: |
Submarine-launched |
| Length: |
13.00 m |
| Diameter: |
2.25 m |
| Launch Weight: |
42000 kg |
| Payload: |
Single warhead or 3-8 MIRV, 1050 to 2800 kg |
| Warhead: |
Nuclear single 1 MT or MIRV selectable 20, 90, 150 kT |
| Propulsion: |
3-stage solid |
| Range: |
8000 km |
| Status: |
Development |
| In Service: |
2006 |
Details
The CSS-NX-5 is an intercontinental-range, submarine-launched, solid propellant ballistic missile under development in the People’s Republic of China (PRC). It is the submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) of the newest generation of PRC missiles. It is believed to have been developed along with the DF-23 land-based missile, which was later redesignated to the DF-31 (CSS-9). The CSS-NX-5 is reported to be similar to the CSS-9 and it is considered possible for the two missiles to be nearly identical. The CSS-NX-5 is designed for launch from the PRC Type 94 missile submarine, to replace the aging CSS-N-3 missiles currently in operation.
The CSS-NX-5, unlike the CSS-N-3, truly secures the PRC missile force against attack. The CSS-NX-5 has sufficient range to strike US and Russian targets from PRC territorial waters, protected by the PRC air force and navy. Its mobility is such that once at sea it can avoid detection and conduct missile launches before it can be found and destroyed. As it can be equipped with Multiple Independent Reentry Vehicle (MIRV) warheads, a single missile can be used to destroy multiple targets, dramatically increasing the damage a single missile submarine could inflict. And as the submarine can also transport the missiles to locations near the target, everywhere in the US and Russia is vulnerable. The CSS-NX-5 missiles can be hidden and protected against a first strike, can inflict considerable damage on their own, and can strike any target within the United States.
Unlike the CSS-N-3, the CSS-NX-5 is not necessarily a first strike weapon. Despite the fact that the missile submarine force is too small to truly provide a guaranteed deterrent, the CSS-NX-5 has sufficient range to allow the missile submarine to be heavily guarded in PRC territorial waters. Though it is still small enough to be theoretically eliminated prior to a first strike, it can be defended sufficiently to not be worth the risk of launch. However, the CSS-NX-5 still has distinct advantages as a first strike weapon. It can be positioned near US waters and be launched without warning. This would prevent a successful evacuation of a target area, such as the White House, and would enable high level strategic targets to be destroyed with minimal warning. The estimated accuracy is insufficient for use against missile silos with MIRV warheads, and single warhead missiles could not be deployed in sufficient numbers to hinder US or Russian missile forces. However, a large quantity of the US missile force will be vulnerable to a first strike should PRC guidance systems be upgraded to the point where a SLBM MIRV warhead can successfully destroy a hardened silo.
The CSS-NX-5 has a minimum range of 2,000 km (1,243 miles), a maximum range greater than 8,000 km (4,971 miles), and carries a payload of 1,050 to 2,800 kg. This payload is believed able to be equipped with either a single 1 MT yield nuclear warhead or between 3 and 8 MIRV warheads. The MIRV warheads probably weigh between 250 and 300 kg apiece and can be set to a nuclear yield of 20, 90 or 150 kT. The missile will likely be capable of being equipped with penetration aids to decrease the effectiveness of anti-missile defense systems. The system uses an inertial guidance system with stellar updates and a Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) system. An accuracy of 300 m CEP has been suggested, but other reports suggest 150 m CEP, which seems to better reflect current guidance technology. The missile uses a three-stage solid propellant engine.
The CSS-NX-5 is believed to have entered the initial design stage in 1970 along with a land-based DF-23, but both were redesigned in 1985 following an operational requirement change. This change probably occurred to take into account advancements in PRC warhead miniaturization technology. The CSS-NX-5 is expected to enter service in 2005, onboard the first Type 94 nuclear missile submarine expected to be completed that same year. Between four and six Type 94 submarines are expected to be built, carrying 16 to 18 CSS-NX-5 missiles each. It is considered possible that the remaining ‘Xia’ class submarine was modified to carry CSS-NX-5 missiles, but it is probable that upgraded CSS-N-3 missiles were installed instead.(1)
Footnotes
- Duncan Lennox, Jane’s Strategic Weapons Systems 42 (Surrey: Jane’s Information Group, January 2005), 71.
2009 Report on Chinese Military Power
March 26, 2009 :: Department of Defense :: News
The Defense Department this week released its 2009 report, Military Power of the People's Republic of China, as mandated by Congress. The annual report describes China's continued development and deployment of intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), the development of a new class of nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines, and the steady increase of medium range ballistic missiles near both the China-India border and the Chinese coast near Taiwan. China also continues to pursue both counterspace and cyberwarfare capabilities, which could threaten America's considerable reliance upon space and electronic assets.
As it does every year, the Chinese government reacted negatively to the report. Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang suggested that the United States "drop the Cold War thinking and prejudices, stop releasing such China military reports and stop the groundless accusations over China."
Ballistic and Cruise Missiles
China, the report observes, "has the most active land-based ballistic and cruise missile program in the world."
One highlight of China's missile efforts is the development of an anti-ship variant of the CSS-5 ballistic missile. This anti-ship missile has a considerable range, of some 1,500 km. Its final stage is designed for maneuverable reentry, making its target more difficult to anticipate, and thus complicating defense against the missile. Such a missile could enhance the Chinese ability to attack ships at sea, including for example American aircraft carriers in the Taiwan Strait.
Unchanged from the 2008 report, China continues to deploy road-mobile solid-fueled ICBMs—most notably the DF-31A, which brings within range any location in the continental United States. The DF-31 and DF-31A are the newest and most sophisticated ICBMs in China's arsenal. Their mobility and solid-fuel engines also make them among the most survivable.
The Pentagon's estimate of China's inventory of CSS-2, CSS-3, CSS-4, DF-31, DF-31A and CSS-5 ballistic missiles remains unchanged in number from last year. China has, however, increased its inventory since 2007 of CSS-6s (from 315-355 to 350-400), of CSS-7s (from 675-715 to 700-750), and of DH-10 cruise missiles (from 50-250 to 150-350).
The JL-2 submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) is still being developed. Once completed, the JL-2 will be deployed aboard new JIN-class (Type 094) submarines. With a range of 7,200 km, the JL-2 would give China its "first credible sea-based nuclear strike capability."
China's industrial ability to produce and upgrade short- and medium-range ballistic missiles has also increased. The Pentagon estimates China could significantly increase the number of short range missiles it produces each year, and could even double the annual output of medium range missiles. The increased production capability may be designed to create a missile export market, thereby proliferating such systems abroad.
China continues to expand the force opposite Taiwan; seven brigades are now stationed nearby, comprising a total of 1,050-1,150 CSS-6 and CSS-7 short range missiles. China continues to augment its missiles within striking distance of Taiwan at the "rate of more than 100 per year."
Along its border with India, China has replaced its older liquid-fueled nuclear-capable CSS-3 intermediate range missiles with more sophisticated solid-fueled CSS-5 medium range missiles.
China continues to produce and purchase an array of sophisticated and accurate cruise missiles, including the DH-10 and YJ-62 land-attack cruise missiles and the Russian SS-N-22/SUNBURN supersonic air-launched cruise missile. The SS-N-27B/SIZZLER supersonic air-launched cruise missile is placed on China's KILO-class diesel electric submarines purchased from Russia. The YJ-62C, a new variant of the YJ-62, has a range of 150 nautical miles; China has reportedly deployed 120 of these to naval bases near Taiwan.
Submarines and Ships
China's growing submarine fleet could begin to pose a threat to the United States navy. Two new SHANG-class (Type 093) nuclear-powered attack submarines and one JIN-class (Type 094) submarine, previously scheduled to enter service last year, are now operational. The JIN-class is of particular interest, as it will be the deployment vehicle for the JL-2 ballistic missile now in development.
These newer submarines will supplement China's four older HAN-class nuclear attack submarines and China's one XIA-class sub. The DoD estimates that China has 13 SONG-class (Type 039) diesel-electric attack submarines, designed to carry the YJ-82 (CH-SS-N-7) anti-ship cruise missile. The next generation attack submarine is the YUAN-class SS: one of these is already operational and another is undergoing sea trials. Judging from China's purchase of diesel engines from Germany, the report estimates that China plans to build up to 15 additional YUAN-class attack submarines.
China's guided-missile destroyers have been hardened and are being given anti-aircraft capabilities, including both Russian and indigenous surface to air missiles (SAMs). These include the Russian SA-N-20 long-range SAM and China's own medium-range HHQ-16, a vertically launched naval SAM under development.
Space and Counterspace
Since China successfully tested a direct-ascent anti-satellite (ASAT) weapon in January 2007 using a ballistic missile, China has continued to pursue ASAT capabilities. The 2009 report describes China's interest in counterspace systems as "more than theoretical. In addition to the ‘kinetic kill' capability demonstrated by the ASAT test, the PLA is developing the ability to jam, blind, or otherwise disable satellites and their terrestrial support infrastructure."
China placed fifteen satellites into orbit in 2008, including four new remote sensing satellites, a manned spacecraft and a companion satellite, three communications satellites, and two satellites for meteorology. In April 2008, China launched its first data relay satellite, the TianLian-1.
Construction has begun for a new rocket launch facility near Wenchang to eventually place heavier payloads in space using its March V booster rocket (the world's largest) still in development.
China's first lunar probe, the Chang'e-1, continues to operate successfully. Its successor will launch in 2009 and will survey the moon surface. China, however, continues to "remain silent about the military applications of [its] space programs and counterspace activities."
Cyberwarfare
China continues to experiment with cyberwarfare. The PRC appears to have been the source of numerous cyber intrusions during 2008, including against computer systems owned by the U.S. Government. These hacks were intended to extract information rather than attack, but the logistics and skill-set required for each activity are similar.
Spending
China's defense spending grew 18% in 2008. China reports its annual military budget as $60 billion, but this number is widely recognized as understated. Pentagon estimates of actual military spending range from $105 to $150 billion. (Article, Link)
» More stories on: Analysis, China, Cruise Missiles, Taiwan
» Missile details: CSS-3, CSS-4, CSS-4A, CSS-5, CSS-5 Mod 2, CSS-6, CSS-7, CSS-7 Mod 2, CSS-8, CSS-9 (DF-31), CSS-N-3, CSS-N-3 Mod 1, CSS-NX-5 (JL-2)
Fisher: China May Have Second-Strike Capability
August 3, 2006 :: Analysis
China may have a “second-strike” nuclear capability, says Richard Fisher, a researcher at the International Assessment and Strategy Center in Alexandria, Virginia. Fisher recently spoke at the American Enterprise Institute in Washington, D.C., where he stated his belief that Beijing has equipped and launched the first JIN-class (Type 094) ballistic missile submarine. The Pentagon had previously asserted that the new Chinese submarine would not be operational until around 2010. Fisher also speculated that China might have already armed the Type 094 submarine with JL-2 (CSS-NX-5) submarine launched ballistic missiles, which would give China a second-strike nuclear capability in any confrontation with the U.S. “The JL-2 SLBM has undergone a series of tests,” he said. “The potential for [the Type 094 submarine] to be armed with multiple warheads is there.” (Article, Link)
» More stories on: Analysis, China, Sea-Based Systems
» Missile details: CSS-NX-5 (JL-2)
Pentagon Releases Report on Chinese Military Power
July 20, 2005 :: Department of Defense :: News
The Pentagon has released its annual report to Congress on Chinese military power, which describes China at “a strategic crossroads.” The 45-page report covers a host of topics, including Chinese military strategy and doctrine, the effects of military modernization, and an assessment of the security situation in the Taiwan Strait. “Questions remain about the basic choices China’s leaders will make as China’s power and influence grow, particularly its military power.” Of particular note is attention to such themes as China’s defense spending, strategic missile forces, the increasing number of short range missiles deployed near Taiwan, space policy, and the threat posed by a high-altitude electromagnetic pulse. (More »»»)
» NY Times: China’s Military Geared to Deterring Taiwan, Report Says
» Text of 2004 DOD Report on Chinese Military Power
» More stories on: China, Chinese Missile Defenses, Space-Based Systems
» Missile details: CSS-2, CSS-2A, CSS-3, CSS-4, CSS-4A, CSS-5 Mod 2, CSS-5, CSS-9 (DF-31), CSS-NX-5 (JL-2)
» Missile system details for: S-300P (SA-10 Grumble)
China Quiet on SLBM Test Details
June 30, 2005 :: News
China is keeping quiet on its recent ship-launched ballistic missile test, reports the Press Trust of India. According to reports, the People’s Liberation Army Navy successfully test-fired its new JL-2 SLBM from a nuclear submarine in the Pacific Ocean on June 16. When asked to confirm the reports of the test, however, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Liu Jianchao refused to comment, stating only that “China has made some efforts in the field of stepping up its national defense.” (Article, Link)
» June 22, 2005: The Washington Times: Bill Gertz on JL-2 launch
» More stories on: China, Testing - Foreign
» Missile details: CSS-NX-5 (JL-2)
China Tests JL-2 SLBM
June 20, 2005 :: News
China on Thursday, June 16, test-fired a new long-range ballistic missile from a nuclear submarine in the Pacific Ocean according to a report by The Daily Yomiuri. The missile traveled from a submarine located near the city of Qingdao which is located in the Shandong Peninsula, some several thousand miles toward a western Chinese desert. Japanese government sources were quoted as saying that the missile tested was the Ju Lang 2 (JL-2), a sea-launched modified version of the Dong Feng-31 ICBM with a range of roughly 8,000 kilometers. China tested another sea launched ballistic missile in 2001.
The Washington Times quotes “a U.S. official familiar with reports of the test” as calling China’s test “a significant milestone in their effort to develop strategic weapons.” The Air Force’s National Air Intelligence Center is also quoted as reporting that the JL-2 missile “will, for the first time, allow Chinese [missile submarines] to target portions of the United States from operating areas located near the Chinese coast.” (Article, Link)
» June 22, 2005: The Washington Times: Bill Gertz on JL-2 launch
» More stories on: China, Testing - Foreign
» Missile details: CSS-NX-5 (JL-2)
China Testing New Class of Nuclear Missile Submarine
December 3, 2004 :: Washington Times :: News
The Washington Times reports that China has recently launched a new class of ballistic missile submarines, Type-094, an significant improvement upon its current Xia class vessel. Bill Gertz quotes one defense official as saying that the submarine will “represent a more modern, more capable missile platform,” and an intelligence official, that the new submarine, reportedly largely based on Russian technologies, will be will be “China’s first truly intercontinental strategic nuclear delivery system.”
The submarine will carry 16 of the JL-2 ballistic missiles, each with multiple warheads. The JL-2 is the sea-based version of the land-based DF-31. Tests of the JL-2 reportedly took place in 2002 and 2003. According to Gertz, citing other U.S. intelligence officials, the Chinese tested the JL-2 missile this summer, but the test failed. No such reports made the mainstream news at the time. (More »»»)
» More stories on: China
» Missile details: CSS-NX-5 (JL-2)
China Military Exercise May Have Included Test of DF-31, Other Missiles
July 27, 2004 :: News
Two weeks ago, several reports indicated that China that it would be testing three missiles during its large military exercises preparing for an assault against Taiwan. The missiles included the DF-31 ICBM, as well as the DF-21 and the JL-2. Two Chinese news services, People’s Daily and Xinhau noted on July 22 that China had notified Russia of its intent to conduct the test during its military exercise, which have since taken place, on July 26. A subsequent report by East Asia Intel suggested that the test would not include the DF-21, since that test had apparently already taken place earlier this year.
Since there has been little media coverage of China’s exercises, it remains unclear if the missile tests were carried out as planned. (Link)
» More stories on: China, Testing - Foreign
» Missile details: CSS-5 Mod 2, CSS-5, CSS-9 (DF-31), CSS-NX-5 (JL-2)
Chinese Missile Tests, Wargames, to Intimidate Taiwan
July 13, 2004 :: Reuters :: News
China plans to conduct a large military exercise later this month to demonstrate its military and especially air superiority to neighboring Taiwan. The exercise to take place at Dongshan island, 150 miles from Taiwan, is said to include several ballistic missile tests as well, including the medium range DF-21 (CSS-5), the mobile, long range DF-31 (CSS-9) ICBM, and the submarine launched version of the DF-31, the JL-2 (CSS-NX-5), reports the Russian Itar-Tass news agency. One year ago, in June 2003, Bill Gertz reported that China planned to test the same three missiles in the coming month.
It is worth noting that Beijing’s test will coincide with the visit to China by National Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice. Since China would have no need to use an ICBM against such a near target as Taiwan, one must suppose that the launch of two ICBMs, the DF-31 and JL-2, could be a signal to the United States that it should not interfere with a Chinese attack on the island.
Itar-Tass claims that the test will be of a new version of the DF-31, with an increased range and multiple warhead capability. The two land-based missiles will reportedly be fired from the Wuzhai testing ground in Shanxi Province, and will be directed at China’s northeast, the Lop Nur test range. A Chinese government report released July 4 describes the test as both the “largest scale exercise this year,” and that it is meant to serve a “substantial warning” to Taiwan. (Article, Link)
» June 30, 2003: China Set to Test Missiles
» More stories on: China, Testing - Foreign
» Missile details: CSS-5 Mod 2, CSS-5, CSS-9 (DF-31), CSS-NX-5 (JL-2)
China Set to Test Missiles
June 20, 2003 :: Inside the Ring (Washington Times) :: News
China is reportedly planning to test three missiles in the coming weeks, the new long-range and mobile DF-31, the medium range DF-21, and the JL-2 SLBM. (Article, Link)
» More stories on: China, Proliferation, Testing - Foreign
» Missile details: CSS-5 Mod 2, CSS-5, CSS-9 (DF-31), CSS-NX-5 (JL-2)
